NDMA issues landslide alert for northern regions

ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority’s (NDMA) National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) has issued a landslide alert for the northern regions of the country in view of forecast monsoon rains and potential slope instability.

According to meteorological projections, isolated rainfall is expected across various valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Additionally, widespread heavy rainfall is forecast in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in Chitral, Dir, Kohistan, and adjoining mountainous zones.

“Due to the new weather pattern, there is a heightened risk of landslides, mudslides, rockfalls, and ground subsidence in several vulnerable locations,” the NDMA alert stated.

All Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs), rescue services, local administrations, armed forces, and humanitarian partners — including NGOs and civil society organizations — have been advised to ensure the presence and readiness of response personnel, machinery, and emergency equipment in sensitive areas.

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Travelers and residents in these regions have been advised to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary movement, especially on steep or unstable slopes.

PMD predicts monsoon rains in twin cities

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted the onset of monsoon rains in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi from Tuesday (today).

The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Rawalpindi has declared a high alert.

According to a WASA spokesperson, all necessary precautionary and operational measures have been put in place to manage potential challenges posed by the expected heavy rainfall.

He said heavy machinery is being used to clear accumulated mud and blockages in Nullah Lai to prevent urban flooding.

“A rain emergency has been officially declared, and all field staff leaves have been canceled to ensure maximum readiness and response,” the WASA spokesperson said.

He added that arrangements for water drainage from low-lying areas have been finalized in anticipation of the downpour.

People have been urged to take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety during the monsoon spell.

CDA launches emergency plan

As heavy monsoon rain drenched Islamabad, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) launched a city-wide emergency response plan to protect residents from flooding and waterlogging.

The plan includes round-the-clock monitoring, rapid-response teams, and efforts to clear drains and flooded roads — all aimed at keeping the city running safely during the rainy season.

“Our top priority is preparedness and prevention. We’re working closely with all departments to ensure immediate action in any emergency,” said CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa.

He added that the CDA is bracing for more rain and that dewatering machines have been deployed to low-lying areas to quickly remove standing water.

Storm drains and nullahs in critical areas like IJP Road, Khanna Pul, and Sector E-11 are being cleaned regularly to prevent blockages.

Randhawa said a modern rain monitoring system is being installed to track water levels in real time. Rapid-response teams, equipped with the latest gear, are on standby 24/7.

The CDA has also launched an emergency helpline (1334) along with a central control room to handle public complaints related to water accumulation, blocked drains, and sewer overflows.

“We’re here to respond fast, but we need the public’s help too,” Randhawa said.

Citizens have been urged not to throw garbage into drains, as it can cause dangerous blockages. “A little cooperation from the public can go a long way in keeping Islamabad clean and safe,” CDA officials said.

With more rains expected, the CDA has urged residents to stay alert, report issues promptly, and do their part to help keep the capital flood-free.